Highlights
- Approximately 75% of U.S. firefighters are volunteers in rescues, firefighting, and medical emergencies.
- Volunteer firefighters invest significant time in training, averaging at least three hours per week throughout the year.
- Volunteer firefighters are unpaid but may receive stipends averaging $7-$20.
- Some regions in the U.S., like Texas, offer volunteers compensation of $25.00 for completed calls.
Wondering if volunteer firefighters get paid for their heroic efforts? The answer is a bit more complicated than a simple yes or no. It's not just about compensation– there's more to the story you might not know.
So, in this guide, we’ll explore the world of compensation for volunteer firefighters, breaking down the facts in an easy-to-understand way. Also, we’ll discover how much they get paid in different cities in the US.
Volunteer Firefighting vs. Career Firefighting: What Sets Them Apart?
Two main types of firefighters are professional or career (paid) and volunteer. Let's break down the key differences:
Volunteer Firefighting
In the US, almost 75% of U.S. firefighters are volunteers. Volunteer firefighters are crucial in helping distressed people, rescuing fire victims, and quickly putting out fires. Depending on their qualifications, they may also assist in medical emergencies. While they undergo training, it's likely not as extensive as career firefighters.
Many volunteer firefighters juggle their firefighting duties with full-time jobs and family commitments. Some, especially those aspiring to enter the professional firefighting arena, focus on volunteer work while taking on gig labor during their free time.
Training is a significant commitment for volunteer firefighters, typically requiring at least three hours per week, 52 weeks a year. However, many fire departments may ask for even more time and dedication. This doesn't include on-call shifts at the fire station. Additional training becomes necessary if the station deals with wildland fires.
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Career Firefighting
Career firefighters typically start with an extensive training course at a fire academy, with a high school diploma being the minimum requirement. Some states or fire departments may demand additional certifications, such as an EMT or commercial driver's license such as category Category C or Category T.
Specialization is common among career firefighters, with some focusing on wildland firefighting. This requires additional training, and these firefighters often work exceptionally long hours, potentially many consecutive days, on a single fire.
While volunteer firefighters may not be allowed to assist with wildland firefighting, policies regarding public lands can vary across different agencies. The National Volunteer Fire Council provides training courses for volunteers learning about wildland firefighting.
Do Volunteer Firefighters Get Paid?
A common question always arises due to the extended hours put in by volunteer firefighters: are volunteer firefighters paid or compensated in any way?
In simple terms, the answer is No. Paying volunteer firefighters a salary or hourly wage is against the law, per the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The FLSA requires that if someone is paid by the hour, they must receive at least minimum wage and an overtime rate for hours worked beyond a certain threshold. Essentially, hourly pay categorizes them as employees under the FLSA, not volunteers.
However, this doesn't mean volunteer firefighters get nothing. They might receive compensation through a monthly or yearly stipend or a per-call rate. The per-call rate could be as low as $7-$20, mainly intended to cover gas expenses rather than as payment for their service. The amount of compensation varies based on the location and the specific duties of the fire service.
In some instances, fire departments may reimburse volunteer firefighters for job-related expenses, though this varies between departments. Many fire departments offer extra benefits, including pensions, as incentives for volunteer firefighters. This can be advantageous in some places, allowing volunteers to continue working past age 65 to increase their pensions even after formally retiring.
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How Much Are Volunteer Firefighters Paid in the US?
Although you now know the answer to Do volunteer firefighters get paid or not? There is a twist as some areas in the US do actually pay volunteer firefighters. According to ZipRecruiter, the average hourly wage for volunteer firefighters in the US is $19.23. Most volunteers typically earn between $16.11 and $27.40 per hour, with the lowest hourly income hitting $8.65.
Are Volunteer Firefighters Paid in Texas?
Yes, in Texas, volunteer firefighters receive quarterly payments of $25.00 for each completed call and training session. Worker's compensation insurance also covers them, and they can participate in the Texas Emergency Services Retirement System (TESRS) for added financial support.
Requirements for Volunteers in Texas
To become a volunteer firefighter in Texas, you need to meet these criteria:
- At least 18 years old
- Valid TEXAS driver's license
- High school diploma or GED
- Vision correctable to 20/20
- Pass a criminal history check
- Complete an entrance agility examination
- Go through the interview process
- Achieve Firefighter Introductory Certification within one year
- Obtain a Class B exempt TX driver’s license
- Get certified as an EMT within two years
- Attend 25% of emergency callouts
- Attend 50% of scheduled training/drill sessions
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Do Volunteer Firefighters Get Paid in California?
Yes, they do. In California, volunteer firefighters are eligible for compensation through the workers' compensation system if they sustain work-related injuries or illnesses. They're treated equally as workers under California law, making them eligible for medical treatment, disability benefits, lost wages, medical expenses, and rehabilitation costs if injured on duty.
How Much Do Volunteer Firefighters Get Paid in North Carolina?
According to ZipRecruiter, the average hourly wage for a Volunteer Firefighter in North Carolina is $15.78. The salary range varies slightly at $4.81. Unfortunately, unlike other locations, there's limited potential for higher wages or growth, regardless of experience and location within North Carolina.
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Top 10 Highest-Paying Cities in the US for Volunteer Firefighters
Curious about the highest-paying cities for these heroes? Here are the top 10:
|
City |
Annual Wage |
Hourly Income |
|
Santa Clara, CA |
$48,254 |
$23.20 |
|
Federal Way, WA |
$47,523 |
$22.85 |
|
San Francisco, CA |
$46,640 |
$22.42 |
|
Washington, DC |
$47,437 |
$22.81 |
|
Mountain View, CA |
$46,484 |
$22.35 |
|
San Jose, CA |
$45,495 |
$21.87
|
|
Los Angeles, CA |
$45,458 |
$21.85
|
|
Marysville, WA |
$45,450 |
$21.85 |
|
Tracy, CA |
$45,085 |
$21.68 |
|
Green River, WY |
$45,259 |
$21.76 |
Summary
After reading our guide on Do volunteer firefighters get paid, you should now be well aware of firefighters salary status. Despite their unpaid status, these dedicated heroes undergo rigorous training, often balancing firefighting duties with full-time jobs and family commitments. However, regional variations exist, such as in Texas, where volunteers receive payment for completed calls and training sessions. Their collective efforts underscore firefighters' invaluable role in safeguarding lives and property, embodying the essence of heroism and public service.
FAQs
How Much Do Volunteer Firefighters Make?
The average hourly pay of a volunteer firefighter in the US may range between $7-$20.
What Are The Benefits Of Being A Volunteer Firefighter?
As a volunteer firefighter, you may get little stipends, tips, and even annual bonuses. Also, you can enjoy free access to free firefighter training programs and classes such as EMS.
